Gunmen suspected to be cultists have killed a popular shawarma vendor simply identified as Benjamin in Ebutte-Ipakodo, Ikorodu, Lagos State.
The victim, also known as Benji, was the owner of the popular Chibest Shawarma in the neighbourhood.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident happened on Tuesday, at 8:30 p.m., while Benjamin was serving customers at his roadside shop.
On Sunday, a local who only identified himself as Samson informed PUNCH Metro that unidentified gunmen broke into his fast food restaurant and shot him at close range.
He also stated that the attack was linked to a cult-related gang rivalry.
“He was attending to some customers when two guys walked up to him. At first, we thought they came to buy shawarma, but then, they suddenly pulled out guns and shot him multiple times at close range. Everyone on the spot and those who heard the gunshots ran for their lives. We learnt the gunmen were rival cultists who came on a revenge mission,” he narrated.
Another resident who spoke on the condition of anonymity while citing the sensitive nature of the incident said the cultists fled the scene immediately after the shooting, leaving Benjamin in a pool of blood.
According to the source, the late Benjamin was unable to receive medical assistance in time due to the chaotic scenario that ensued following the attack.
“Benji was left in his pool of blood for a while, as no one could go near him due to the way he was shot. It took a little while before some people could move close to the spot. He was later rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead,” the source said.
In a social media post seen by our correspondent on Sunday, the deceased victim was describedd as hard-working and jovial.
“Benji was not just popular in the area; he was also friendly and related with almost everyone. People in the area are still shocked at what happened, and this has also caused panic in the community.
At the time of filing this report, the State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, had yet to comment on the incident.
